Contactless Access Control Solutions Buyer Guide 2020

There are now more reasons than ever for businesses to invest in contactless access control systems. They perform the basic function of helping to regulate door access to restricted areas of a facility. But contactless solutions can also play a part in stopping the spread of contagious diseases.

What Are Contactless Access Control Solutions?

Like regular access control systems, these solutions are placed at the entry and exit points in commercial buildings. The main difference, as the name suggests, is that people are not required to make contact with (touch) these systems in order for them to work. Instead, they come with different sensors that read various physical features of a person and then allow entry or give a response as needed.

There are several different kinds of contactless access control systems to buy.

Facial Recognition Systems

A facial recognition system is designed to compare a person’s facial biometric features against a database of stored images. It consists of a face recognition terminal that scans a user’s face. Face recognition terminals, such as the Suprema FaceLite and Suprema Face Station 2, use infrared illuminance technology, which can operate in all interior lighting conditions.

Wireless Intercoms

A wireless intercom system allows users to communicate with visitors and give or deny access. In commercial buildings, messages can easily be broadcasted to co-workers. Users can also give directives to visitors arriving at a gate or door. In terms of contactless access control, wireless intercoms such as those offered by Comelit are available in audio-only or video-audio combinations. With video intercoms, users are able to view visitors, as well as people in a building and can use smart devices to carry out actions wirelessly.

Motion Detection Devices

Some traditional door access control systems often require people to touch buttons, swipe cards or place fingerprints. This can be rather problematic, especially for people working in environments that require a high level of hygiene. These include hospitals, food processing, and chemical handling facilities. One solution for automatic entryways in these areas is motion-detecting sensors. These devices use various technologies, such as infrared and microwave, to detect motion and then provide entry or exit accordingly. Common product choices in this area include:

• The Hotron J-Wave, which is a touchless automatic door activation switch.
• The Hotron Clearwave Non-touch, which is a motion-detecting door activation switch.
• The MAGIC SWITCH, which is a hand motion sensor that uses microwave technology.

Bluetooth Readers

A Bluetooth reader is another type of touchless entry system that is particularly suitable for businesses that want to maintain a high level of hygiene. The Bluetooth reader requires users to register personal profiles with a corresponding Bluetooth app on their mobile devices. One of the leading solutions where this contactless access control system is concerned is the Vanderbilt range. Vanderbilt’s Bluetooth Readers require the end-users to install the related Bluetooth app and register for a credential. Once the profile is stored in the system, users are required to have a mobile device with the app when approaching doors monitored by the Bluetooth Reader. The app can be used on both Android and iOS devices.

Important Considerations

There are many different contactless access control systems available on the market. Making the best choice requires taking the following into consideration:

• Pricing: More access points at your business place will determine how expensive your chosen system can be. Some products may also require you to purchase additional devices, which can quickly drive up the cost.
• Features: Make sure the features offered by an access control system are relevant to the needs of your business.
• Compatibility: If you already have a security system in place and want to integrate an additional or supplementary access control solution, you should check to ensure compatibility before making a purchase.
• Ease of installation: Some contactless access control systems require very little installation work and can even be surface-mounted. Others will need the help of a professional.

Choosing the best contactless access control system will require some amount of expertise and knowledge in the field. If you are unsure where to begin, you might consider contacting Power Right for assistance in choosing and setting up an appropriate access control system.